Abstract

We examined how adopting a future (vs.
present)-oriented perspective when reflecting on a relationship conflict
impacts the
process of reasoning and relationship well-being.
Across two studies, participants instructed to think about how they
would
feel in the future (vs. present) expressed more
adaptive reasoning over a relationship conflict—low partner blame,
greater
insight, and greater forgiveness, which was then
associated with greater relationship well-being—for example, more
positive
versus negative emotions about the relationship and
expectations that the relationship will grow. These findings were
driven
by a decrease in person-centered language when
reflecting on the conflict. Implications for understanding how tempo